Why Does My Car Pull to One Side When Driving?

You are driving on a straight road and notice the steering wheel tugging in one direction.

At first it feels like a small annoyance, but over time the pull gets stronger and the car feels harder to keep straight. This problem is more than an irritation. It can mean extra tyre wear, higher fuel use, and a risk to your safety if you need to brake hard in an emergency. This guide explains the most common reasons cars drift or pull to one side, the risks of ignoring it, and when to ask your mechanic to take a closer look.

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What Causes a Car to Pull to One Side?

Incorrect Wheel Alignment

If your wheels are not aligned properly, the tyres point in slightly different directions. This creates uneven rolling resistance and makes the car pull. Alignment problems often happen after hitting a pothole, curb, or speed bump too hard.

Uneven Tyre Pressure

Tyres that are under-inflated or inflated to different pressures on each side will change the way the car handles. Even a small difference of a few PSI can make the car drift. Checking and adjusting tyre pressures is the simplest fix to rule out.

Suspension or Steering Wear

Worn suspension bushes, ball joints, or steering parts can cause movement in the wheel that pushes the car off line. As these parts wear gradually, the pull often becomes worse over time.

Brake Problems

If one brake caliper is sticking, it will drag slightly and pull the car in that direction. This is more noticeable under braking but can also affect straight-line driving.

Tyre Damage or Uneven Wear

A tyre with internal damage, uneven tread wear, or a bulge can affect rolling resistance and steering. Swapping the tyres from side to side can sometimes highlight the issue, but a professional inspection is safest.

Symptom to Cause Guide

Symptom	Likely Cause	Next Step
Car drifts even on a flat road	Wheel alignment out	Book a wheel alignment check
Car pulls after inflating tyres	Suspension or steering wear	Arrange suspension inspection
Car pulls only while braking	Sticking brake caliper	Book a brake service
Car drifts more at higher speeds	Tyre damage or uneven wear	Get tyres inspected and rotated
Pulling worse after hitting pothole or curb	Alignment knocked out	Request alignment reset

Why Ignoring the Problem is Risky

Driving with a car that constantly pulls to one side may not feel dangerous at first, but the risks add up.

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Uneven tyre wear that shortens tyre life

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Higher fuel use as the car fights against resistance

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Reduced control in an emergency stop or swerve

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Minor issues turning into major suspension or brake repairs

When to See a Mechanic

It is normal for a car to follow the slope of the road slightly, but strong or consistent pulling means it is time for an inspection. Book a check if:

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The car still pulls after inflating all tyres correctly

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The problem happens on different roads, not just one

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The pulling is getting worse over time

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You feel vibration in the steering wheel or notice uneven tyre wear

A mechanic can diagnose whether it is a wheel alignment issue, suspension wear, brake fault, or tyre problem.

How VP Autocare Fixes Steering Pull Issues

At VP Autocare we begin by checking tyre pressures and wheel alignment. If alignment is not the cause, we inspect suspension and steering parts for wear. We also check brake performance and tyre condition. By finding the cause early, we carry out the right repair before it leads to expensive tyre replacement or suspension damage.

Need a wheel or suspension check?

Noticing your car drifting off line? Book a wheel and suspension check with VP Autocare today.

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FAQs

Why does my car pull after hitting a pothole?

The impact may have knocked your wheel alignment out. An alignment check will confirm and reset the angles.

Can low tyre pressure cause pulling?

Yes. A tyre with lower pressure has more rolling resistance, which can steer the car off course.

Is pulling to one side dangerous?

It can be. It increases tyre wear and reduces steering control, especially in an emergency.

What if the pull only happens while braking?

That often points to a sticking brake caliper or uneven brake wear. A mechanic should inspect it quickly.

Can suspension wear cause pulling?

Yes. Worn bushes, ball joints, or shocks allow excess movement that affects wheel alignment and steering stability.

How often should I check wheel alignment?

At least once a year or sooner if you notice uneven tyre wear, new vibrations, or after hitting a pothole or curb.

A car that pulls to one side is not just frustrating. It is a sign that something in the tyres, wheels, suspension, or brakes needs attention. Ignoring it means faster tyre wear, higher running costs, and added risk if you need to steer or brake suddenly. By asking a trusted mechanic to investigate early, you can keep your car safe, reliable, and driving straight.

VP Autocare
8 Carrick Drive, Tullamarine VIC 3043
(03) 9338 5455
Book your wheel and suspension check

Servicing Tullamarine, Gladstone Park, Keilor, Keilor East, Keilor Park, Westmeadows, Strathmore, Glenroy, Jacana, Attwood, Niddrie, and nearby suburbs.

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